Despite the increases in length and width, the A3 cabriolet is actually lighter than before, thanks in part to the new MQB architecture and aluminium-hybrid body construction (which includes an aluminium bonnet), and also to revisions to the range of engines. The body-in-white weighs 30kg less than before, and the entry-level model has a kerb weight of just 1440kg.The third gen A3 received a mid-life facelift in 2016, focusing directly on improved interiors, more standard equipment and a more defined exterior.

Scuttle shake is kept to a well concealed minimum but there's detectable movement through the body when dealing with larger intrusions and over more challenging road surfaces. It's never terrible, but there's no getting away from the fact that you're dealing with an essentially compromised chassis. If the option of lowering the roof is an acceptable trade-off, however, you should have no cause for serious complaint.

That roof, incidentally, which opens and closes in 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph, comes in two versions. Entry-level SE models get a standard hard-wearing fabric roof, but a more sound-absorbent 'acoustic' soft-top is available as an option, or as standard on higher spec models.

So the A3 cabriolet drives acceptably well, it's slightly bigger (but also slightly lower) and slightly lighter than before, and comes with the appealing option of a clever, cleaner version of petrol engine. It also gets a slightly bigger boot - 320 litres with the roof closed compared with 260 litres in the old A3 cabriolet - and, according to Audi, 'generous space' for four passengers.

That we'd take some issue with. While the front cabin is spacious enough (although the driver's elbow can fight for space with the passenger's arm during manual gearchanges), the two rear seats really aren't the most accommodating. Anything bigger than a medium to large-sized child will want for shoulder and legroom on anything but short journeys, even with the distraction of a top-down, wind-in-their-hair experience.

There are four trims to choose from - SE, Sport, S line and S3. Entry-level models get a wealth of standard equipment, including 16in alloys, xenon headlights, heated wing mirrors, cruise control, rear parking sensors and automatic lights and wipers. Inside there is air conditioning, manually adjustable front seats and Audi's MMI infotainment system complete with a 7.0in retractable screen, DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Overall, the A3 cabriolet fills its brief pretty well. It's a stylish product which is exceptionally well executed both inside and out. The inevitable dynamic compromises made in the name of roofless motoring, allied to artificial steering free of much in the way of meaningful feedback, blunt the model's appeal to the enthusiast driver, but otherwise this compact convertible is a measured success.